R&D Project Lead

Butterball Careers•Garner, NC

11h•Hybrid

About The Position

Serves as an acknowledge subject matter expert (SME) and is responsible for steering product development and process enhancement initiatives. Spearheads intricate and pivotal projects, guiding them through the entire lifecycle from conception to commercialization. Collaborates with strategic vendors and internal partners to ensure the preparation of products for market. Impacts and guides technical advancements in products and process improvements while exploring emerging technologies to fortify the organization's standing within the poultry industry. At Butterball, we exist to help people pass love on. As the most recognized name in turkey, the brand represents more than 60 years of cherished memories, providing quality, great tasting products that make meals something to celebrate every day. We proudly believe that life at Butterball means having a team who supports you, having the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and making an impact on the health of others daily. Whether you choose to work at one of our five (5) manufacturing facilities in NC, AR, MO, farms in AR, NC, and KS, corporate office in NC, IL, or in the field, we believe we have an opportunity for everyone to succeed. At Butterball, we believe in fostering a culture where every team member is valued, has the opportunity to grow professionally and contribute to our success. Join us in our Purpose and apply for an opportunity today!

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent (i.e., Food Science, Poultry Science, Biochemistry, etc.)
8+ years of relevant experience or the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in the role
5+ years of industry experience collaborating, guiding, and/or overseeing R&D moderately complex R&D projects
Ample experience with scientific research concepts, data collection and review, and identifying and implementing process improvements
Skilled a new product launches with a proven track record of bringing products from concept to market
Familiarity with regulatory requirements in the food industry
Top-notch interpersonal, presentation, and written and verbal communication skills with the ability to deliver clear guidance with patience and understanding
Strong understanding and mastery of poultry science/poultry processing, marination, ingredient technology, product formulations, and meat science principles
Proficient across multiple technical categories, complex product types, and production lines
Expert project management skills with the ability to effectively guide project teams and collaborate seamlessly across functions
Strong creative thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills with the ability to use data and sound judgment to inform strategy and direction
Proven ability to use new technology to significantly improve profitability, product quality, food safety and manufacturing complexity issues
Proficient with Microsoft Suites (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Projects, etc.), Smartsheet, and/or related project management tools

Nice To Haves

5+ years of Plant level Operational experience in Consumer-Packaged Goods (i.e., quality, production, inventory management, etc.)

Responsibilities

Guides, coordinates, and provides oversight for assigned for projects, ensuring effective prioritization and timely completion to achieve optimal results.
Conveys project updates, findings, and recommendations to key partners, including executives and cross-functional teams.
Owns, guides, and is responsible for new product projects from conception to commercialization by collaborating cross-functionally.
Fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment to enhance team efficiency and creativity.
Maintains external and marketplace awareness related to new concepts, products, ingredients, and technologies.
Meaningfully impacts the development of new poultry products, considering market trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements.
Conducts feasibility studies to pinpoint novel processes and product formulations with the potential to introduce new products.
Recommends new raw materials, ingredients, materials, and processes that improve products and reduce cost.
Documents and accurately captures crucial process steps in product specifications ensuring clear definition of gold standard product and processing techniques.
Serves as a technical expert liaison to the Marketing and Sales teams, supporting existing customers and facilitating the pursuit of new business opportunities.
Ensures all R&D activities adhere to regulatory standards and compliance requirements in the food manufacturing industry.
Reviews and guides continuous improvement opportunities and solutions directed at improving profitability, product quality, food safety and capital avoidance.